The COVID-19 situation has placed some business on a halt, some may have even closed their doors. We have seen how entertainment centers, tourist attractions, zoos, and even museums were affected by this outbreak.
There is no denying that technology has made life simpler, making us feel that the world is at our fingertips. As travel bans have been imposed all around the world, you may have heard about virtual traveling. Exploring the world at the comfort of your home might not give you the best experience but think about its convenience; you don't have to deal with the crowd! Even better, some of these tours are free! From the deepest part of the world to local zoos to historical and art museums; there's an abundance of virtual tours made available for you. Can't travel to visit these iconic museums? Don't worry, we've got you covered.
Here are 10 best virtual museum tours you need to check out in 2020!
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1. The British Museum, London
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The British Museum in London was opened in 1759 and was the first national public museum in the world. You can learn about human histories and culture dated way back to over two million years.There are several ways for you to enjoy these historic artifacts. Explore the virtual museum tours through Google Street View. You can visit up to 60 over galleries like the Egyptian sculpture gallery and The World of Alexander. You can also view an infographic timeline of each artifact through History Connected. You can easily read through the facts or even listen to the audio made available. It is very informative and must not be missed by all history buffs! For those of you who had always dreamed of visiting this museum, this is your chance. And the best part is, it's free!
Website
2. The Broad, Los Angeles
Image Credit: Tu Tram Pham on UnsplashThe Broad in Los Angeles features contemporary art from the 1950s to the present. With almost 2,000 pieces of artwork, you can find collections from influential contemporary artists like Andy Warhol and Yayoi Kusama.Get inspired by the effort made by The Broad to bring this wonderful experience to you at home. Watch one of The Broad's famous installations, Yayoi Kasuma's Infinity Mirrored Room, over some lights and sounds environment. If you want to find activities you can do with the kids, get inspired through the family workshops at home series. It contains step-by-step tutorials that you can enjoy with your family. If you can't get over the Infinity Mirrored Room, then you can learn how to create one from one of the videos.Website
3. National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne
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National Gallery of Victoria in Melbourne, Australia, is one of the oldest museums to exist in the country. Founded in 1861, you can find artworks from both local and international artists, ranging from contemporary art, fashion, architecture, and dance.Fans of KAWS, you no longer have to feel disappointed about missing this exhibition. Now available via virtual tours, head down to the website to visit KAWS: Companionship in the Age of Loneliness exhibition. Other exhibitions you can visit virtually includes the 'Japanese Modernism' and 'Keith Haring | Jean-Michel Basquiat: Crossing Lines.' The latter exhibition is worth visiting as you can listen to the audio tour by the curator himself. Wonderful isn't it? Website
4. National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, Seoul
Image Credit: National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art
The National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art has established four museums in different venues; Gwacheon, Deoksugung, Seoul, and Cheongju. It is one of the most famous museums in Korea that showcases Korea's art and culture. The four museums are unique; each showcasing different aspects of art and culture in Korea but are geared towards a common goal which is to provide a rewarding cultural experience to visitors.
You can find various artworks ranging from literature to calligraphy, architecture to design, and family-oriented space and children's museum.One of the ways you can enjoy a tour around the museum is through the official website. You can watch tour videos on Jonathan Borofsky's Singing Man or Kim Whanki's Two Moon. Meanwhile, on Google Art & Culture, you can view more collections from renowned artistes or even go on a virtual tour on all levels.Website
5. Musée d’Orsay, Paris
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Musée d’Orsay in Paris, France, holds French artworks dated way back in 1848 to 1914. These artworks range from painting, sculpture, furniture, and photographs. Fans of impressionist will find solace in this museum, witnessing artworks from renowned painters like Monet and Van Gogh.As Musée d’Orsay used to be a railway station, you may catch a glimpse of its history through an online exhibition called From Station to the Renovated Musée d'Orsay. Apart from that, get inspired by the canvas painting and oil painting made available for you in Google Art & Culture. You can now enjoy the artworks from this exhibition in the comfort of your home!Website
6. China Paper Cutting Museum, Yangzhou
Image Credit: China Paper Cutting Museum on Discover China
The China Paper Cutting Museum in Yangzhou holds a diverse collection of paper-cutting arts from around the country. With almost 400 pieces of artwork, its genre ranged from landscapes, birds and flowers, and plants, and insects. Paper-cutting art has always been important to Chinese folk culture. These delicate and detailed arts may leave you in awe and keep you inspired in many ways.You can view the artwork virtually from local artistes via the online exhibitions made available. If you wanna try making some paper cutting art, how about watching the online exhibition called 'The Art of Cutting Paper by Zhang Muli?' All you need is just a pair of scissors and some paper. Time to get crafty! Website
7. Kyoto Museum of Traditional Crafts, Kyoto
Image Credit: Kyoto Museum of Traditional Crafts
The Kyoto Museum of Traditional Crafts, also known as Fureaikan, features Kyoto's traditional crafts. With almost 500 collections ranging from Kimonos, lacquerwares, and textiles, there is always something to see and learn on Kyoto crafts.The traditional garment Kimono has always featured beautiful and intricate designs. Learn its history from the online exhibition, 'The Ancient History Making and Wearing a Kimono' and 'Historical Development of Kimono Pattern'. The beautiful textiles of a Kimono will leave you in awe, as you learn to appreciate them more given that the time and effort it takes to make the textiles can be excruciating. Website
8. Singapore Art Museum, Singapore
Image Credit: The Singapore Art Museum
The Singapore Art Museum is dedicated to contemporary art based in Singapore and Southeast Asia. Whether the museum is closed for major transformation or due to the COVID-19 situation, you can still visit the museum and view the exhibitions virtually.
Singapore Art Museum has been an organizer for the Singapore Biennale in four different years. If you missed it, you may get the chance to view the last years' collections in the online exhibition 'Singapore Biennale 2019: Every Step in the Right Direction.' You can also go on a virtual walk in the museum and explore all levels that are made available.Website
9. National Museum of Natural Science, Taichung
Image Credit: National Museum of Natural Science on Taichung Travel Net
If you want to skip the art and history, or if you are just into nature and science, then this museum is for you! The National Museum of Natural Science in Taichung, Taiwan, covers exhibitions like astronomy, space science, and ecology. With over 50 permanent exhibitions to look out for, there is always something for everyone to learn from, be it adults or children.As one of the most visited museums in Taiwan, there shouldn't be a reason to skip this museum especially when you can visit it virtually!. Run through the 100 specimens of different departments; geology, botany, zoology, and anthropology in this online exhibition. You will never leave this virtual tour without learning something new, we promise! Website
10. Fubon Art Foundation, Taipei
Image Credit: Fubon Art Foundation
Fubon Art Foundation may be a little different from the rest of the museums on this list. Its aim is to promote art education and support art-based events. To incorporate art into one's lifestyle, it is not necessary to visit a museum or a gallery. Hence, "Very Fun Park" is established where people can experience art from the streets and alleyways in the city.Don't be sad if your trip to Taiwan is canceled, and you can't witness these awesome artworks. Now, you can navigate through the online galleries and view the various installations from different contemporary visual artists. The colorful and unique installations are interesting to look at; it makes you want to witness them in real life too!Website
If you think that you can't experience new things without leaving your house, then you are wrong! This list of virtual museum tours will occupy your time, give you some inspiration, relax your mind, and perhaps, allow you to learn something new. If these museums piqued your interest, then you can include them in your itinerary the next time you are traveling!
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Looking for podcasts to listen to for personal growth and motivation? Look no further as we have 10 best podcasts recommendations for those of you seeking to improve yourself or looking for content that is uplifting during this tough Covid-19 period. A podcast is an audio program, much like your radio stations. It contains a series of audio episodes focused on a particular topic or theme. In comparison to a traditional radio station, you can subscribe to a podcast channel through apps from your smartphone, or simply listening directly on the website, making it accessible anytime you want to listen to them.
With the current COVID-19 situation, most of us are staying at home. I won't deny that staying at home can be mundane and sometimes demotivating as there is nothing much we can do. With more "me-time" at hand, there is always space for us to take things slowly and get motivated. We can also continue to focus on our personal development and growth; something we were unable to do before this crisis. Check out these 10 podcasts that can uplift and inspire you during your "me-time!"
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1. The School Of Greatness
Image Credit: The School of Greatness on Podbean
Hosted by a bestselling author, entrepreneur, pro athlete and world record holder in football, Lewis Howes, The School of Greatness is an inspirational podcast featuring influential people (big names like Tony Robbins and Alanis Morisette.) Each episode revolves around topics like entrepreneurship, health, athletic, and relationship. Each episode runs for generally about an hour, featuring interviews or solo rounds with the host himself. Meanwhile, every Friday, you can catch up on the listener-favorite segment, 5 minutes Friday.
This podcast series is inspirational as it pushes you to dream big and chase after your dreams. To quote some words from Lewis, "we are born for a reason, and it is your responsibility to build a better version of yourself. Despite the challenges we are going through, only you have the power to strengthen your mental strength, emotional intelligence, and physical health." For those looking for guides to aid in personal growth and development, this podcast is definitely one you should not miss out!
Website | Spotify | iTunes
2. The Habit Coach
Image Credit: The Habit Coach on IVM Podcasts
Let the habit coach, Ashdin Doctor, takes you through a series of simple habits. Revolving around topics like health, productivity, and relationships, these easy-to-adopt habits will get you inspired and motivated. You can find new episodes every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Running for about less than 10 minutes per episode, it is ideal if you are not a fan of long podcasts. In conjunction with the current situation that we are in, The habit coach featured an episode in which Ashdin Doctor highlighted the importance of setting goals and targets to develop good habits during this quarantine period. These tips can help in stopping procrastination and get you started. Just like how Ashdin Doctor mentioned: "awesome lives start with your awesome habits!"
Looking forward to focusing on your personal growth as an individual during this quarantine period? Be sure to listen to this podcast audio as it provides useful content that is motivational and uplifting.
Website | Spotify | iTunes
3. Good Life Project
Image Credit: Good Life Project on Listen Notes
Good Life Project is a community built to help you live a meaningful life. Through support and inspiration, you can meet people in the community face-to-face or through online medium. The Good Life Project features teachers from all around the world, sharing their stories revolving around their lives and works.
Airing twice a week on Mondays and Thursdays, you can listen to the audio episodes featuring special guests like Brene Brown and Bob Thurman and also other everyday guests. These real-life stories may influence you and spark some ideas in making changes to your current lifestyle.
Website | Spotify | iTunes
4. The One You Feed
Image Credit: The One You Feed on Shining Bright Radio
The one you feed revolves around self-help topics like anxiety, depression, and meditation, to name a few. Hosted by Eric Zimmer, this podcast features conversations with experts like psychologists, scientists, and public figures. Get some powerful and practical tips that you can incorporate into your daily life.
With the concept of two wolves battling within us, it is up to you to decide which will win. As the name of the podcast suggests, the one you feed will be the one to win the battle. We all need the motivation and wisdom to pull us out of the dark days, especially during this period. If you need something to uplift your mood and keep you motivated during this tough period, give this podcast series a try. Listeners have deemed this podcast as a life-saver and the best antidote to feeling bad.
Website | Spotify | iTunes
5. Happier with Gretchen Rubin
Image Credit: Happier with Gretchen Rubin on Apple Podcasts
Hosted by author, Gretchen Rubin, this podcast revolves around topics on how to lead a happier life. Deemed as one of the best podcasts on iTunes and BuzzFeed, learn one or two tips from Gretchen herself on how to live a more productive life.
The happier podcast has featured some episodes revolving around the COVID-19 situation. It's normal to feel that there is nothing much to do during this quarantine / social distancing period. Gretchen has shared some tips on this episode and it has spark some ideas for me! If you have zero ideas on where to start, give this podcast a try!
Website | Spotify | iTunes
6. Tiny Leaps, Big Changes
Image Credit: Tiny Leaps, Big Changes on Awesound
Hosted by Gregg Clunis, this podcast focuses on working towards our goals. Revolving around self-development, you can learn from Gregg on strategies to get started with your biggest goals in life.
Sometimes, personal development is not enough for us to get around our lives and achieve our goals. Understanding variable factors like social and cultural influences will help us make the necessary plans and strive for the best. In context, while our goals might get halted due to the current situation, it should not hinder our plans further after some tweaking. Tiny leaps, big changes contents tackle such challenges. To quote Gregg: "all big changes come from the tiny leaps you take every day."
Website | Spotify | iTunes
7. Unlocking Us
Image Credit: Unlocking Us on Apple Podcasts
Unlocking Us first debuted in March 2020. Despite being one of the newest podcasts, there are so many contents that you can look out for revolving around human experiences. Follow Brene Brown as she unfolds the stories from the most courageous to the most heartbreaking.
It is human nature for us to feel and get swarmed by our own emotions. Sometimes it is overwhelming up to the point that it becomes uncontrollable. Self-love is important, but with the current situation, one might find their self-acceptance to be really low. Unlocking Us contents explore human emotions and learn to understand them so that we can lead lives with more courage.
Website | Spotify | iTunes
8. Hurdle
Image Credit: Hurdle on Stitcher
As the title of this podcast suggests, Hurdle follows life experiences, the ups and downs that life has to offer. Listen to Emily Abbate talk to inspirational people; from top athletes to entrepreneurs, on how they get through the toughest time to get to where they are today.
With new episodes airing every thrice a week, Hurdle focuses on personal growth, both physically and mentally. At times, we need an assurance that we are not going through this hurdle of life alone. Get inspired to be your better self, but don't forget about the fun along the way. Listen to this podcast to get an idea on how we can improve ourselves this Ramadan.
Website | Spotify | iTunes
9. The Overwhelmed Brain
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Often, we are bombarded with thoughts and emotions that may cloud our decision making. This podcast brings you a combination of critical thinking with personal growth. Listen to Paul Colaianni shares tips of being yourself and how you can build your self-esteem and strengthen your emotional intelligence.
Listeners are feeling positive about what Paul has to deliver. Coming from someone who has experienced life, it is relatable and hits home for some. The tips shared by Paul are practical and something that you can take note of too. This podcast might be the key to enhancing your effort to improve yourself and develop as an individual.
Website | Spotify | iTunes
10. 7 Good Minutes
Image Credit: 7 Good Minutes on Listen Notes
If you dread long podcasts, this is something for you. With each episode lasting just 7 minutes, follow Clyde Lee Dennis as he shares with you some self-improvement tips and inspiration to get through the day.
Sometimes, a piece of short advice can uplift our mood and make us more refresh. You can find topics ranging from health, developing habits, and setting goals, to name a few. Each episode features special guests like teachers or speakers like Mel Robbins and Jay Shetty. This podcast gives you an idea of how to get through the day, which is timely given the current climate we are in.
Website | Spotify | iTunes
There you have it, 10 best podcasts to listen to for personal growth and development! If you are looking to improve yourselves during this period, now is the chance to do so. Listening to podcasts either in the morning before you start your daily chores or work or during your free time, can be uplifting. We hope that some of these podcasts can drive you to be the better version of yourself and keep yourself motivated during this tough time....

Muslims all over will celebrate the blessed month of Ramadan under lockdown and tight limitations due to the coronavirus pandemic that has weakened all continents. Be that as it may, with strict curfews imposed throughout and physical social distancing orders authorized to confine the spread of the exceptionally infectious COVID-19 virus, a large number of Ramadan's customs and conventions will be abridged for the current year.
Gathering to pray in mosques are prohibited in a few nations, and numerous mosques have been closed down until the virus is eliminated. Mosques around the globe will stream sermons, Quranic recitation, and prayers via the web and video conferencing mechanisms. Muslims will likewise have the option to participate in religious sermons through video-conferencing modes like Zoom, Facebook, WhatsApp video call, and YouTube.
The Eid al-Fitr celebration denotes the end of Ramadan and is commended as an official holiday in many countries. This year, the world will see an Eid like never before – with few traditions that can only be carried out at home.
So we feel that this is how celebrating Ramadan remotely would look like!
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1. Eid – A Homely Affair
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Due to lockdown instructions set up and enormous get-togethers prohibited, the current year's merriments will be downsized. The physical distancing guidelines will likewise lessen the festivity feel of Eid.
Many will most likely be unable to meet with their families to celebrate Eid Al-Fitr. Muslims are being encouraged that in the event that they are living and working in different parts of the world compared to where their family is residing, they should shun away from visiting their hometowns for Eid.
Given the current situation, it stays muddled if countries will lift or simplify lockdown measures for Eid. Due to this, it is advised that Eid prayers are performed at home. Whether we like it or not, Eid this year will be much more somber than how it is celebrated in the previous years. It will be unique as it will be a close Eid festivity between the immediate family members.
A lockdown and Eid do not go hand in hand. Eid is about association, mingling together, and coming together for the much-awaited family time with our loved ones. This year, innovation is one aspect that all will be utilizing. This year we will have to rely upon social media and the internet when we want to communicate with our family and friends residing in different parts of the country or world instead of getting to meet them physically.
Draw up your Eid plan like how you would usually do it! Sit down with your family and talk about what you will do on Eid. Despite the fact that you will celebrate it at home, you can settle on what sorts of Eid treats you will prepare at home, how you can pass on Eid Salaams virtually and how you can get together your family and friends by means of Zoom and celebrate it with them.
2. Dress Up!
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When taking most Muslim nations into consideration, Eid is a period for purchasing new garments. In spite of the fact that this year, you won't be actually venturing out or going visiting, you can, in any case, still wear your Eid clothing at home - which you would have bought or selected - to get into the spirit of Eid.
3. Decorate!
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Decorate the house with your family members to get into the lively and festival feel of Eid. It will help liven up your children from not being able to spend Eid the usual way. Use balloons, banners, decorations from the previous year, and lights. You can even choose to have a home DIY Raya photo studio! Spruce up yourself and your children in your lovely clothing attires that you chose for Eid and set up a background that suits you best and get clicking!
Every arrangement utilizes an alternate setting or backdrop, giving you loads of assortment and different ideas on how you want your photo to be. They are quick and simple to set up and you could even utilize items that you would have stored in your storeroom. It could be leftovers from last Eid’s decoration or the decorations that you used for your kids' birthday party! Get creative! The sky is the limit!
One item that deemed useful and convenient as a setting is curtain panels. They are quite tall and are accessible in pretty much any shading you could need. You can even use Lampu Lap Lip to spruce up your Eid decorations which can likewise be utilized as a prop for your Raya photoshoot. These are solar-powered and convenient to use with low energy consumption. They give an exquisite shimmering shine that can be seen from any point which could improve the quality of your photographs as well.
4. Hari Raya Puasa – Food! Glorious Food!
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Typically, a three-day festival, Hari Raya unites loved ones to indulge in and bury themselves in the preparation of the traditional sweets and cheerfulness. However, given the current circumstances, the festival will have to be celebrated within one’s own home. Instead of visiting the homes of friends and family, one can opt for the ideal social distancing tool – video conferencing.
This year you can whip up some delicacies that you can prepare with your family along with a slight twist – amalgamating some modern treats too! Some of the traditional dishes being Bubur Lambuk, Ketupat or Lemang, Kueh Raya, Kueh Lapis, Lontong, Bandung, and Satay with Spicy Peanut Sauce. The modern dishes that you can incorporate to your meal could be Churros, Boms, and Steaks.
5. Netflix All Day Long!
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Due to the inability to go to a cinema or to a friend’s house to have a movie night, Netflix is now our savior! While you stay at home, this contributes to having a lot of time to spend to run through a plethora of movies, TV series and dramas Netflix has to offer as entertainment amidst this pandemic.
Here are a few recommendations for you this Eid:
Humor
I Think You Should Leave with Tim Robinson, Friends and Derry Girls
Thrillers
Good Time, Black Mirror and 1922
Binge-watch worthy
Better Call Saul, I Am Not Okay with This and Money Heist
Family-friendly
Annie with an E, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air and John Mulaney & the Sack Lunch Bunch
6. Gaming Applications to keep you occupied!
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Online games have made social distancing much easier! The vast array of games and applications now available will help keep you associated while in detachment from the rest of the world.
Here are some of the best picks:
Houseparty
Staying true to its name, Houseparty offers an approach to hang out and party with companions while being isolated at home.
Apart from offering the video calling option, Houseparty accompanies in-application games to play while talking. There are likewise discrete virtual "rooms" that users can switch from, giving the feel of an authentic house party, but virtually.
Facebook Gaming
Facebook's Gaming tab offers an approach to play online games with your loved ones or even anyone from the 2 billion users who make use of this gaming facility. It has incorporated classics and modern games like Pac-Man, Space Invaders, and Super Dash.
Quiz Up
Having a database of 1200 topics and 600,000 questions, this trivia application enables users to challenge their friends and have competitions on topics ranging from general knowledge to topics that you would have probably be taught back in your good ole school days.
Classic board game now comes in the form of applications too. The majority of classic board games have been transformed into an online game application, which has a lot of similar features in comparison to the actual board game and is adjusted to suit their users with playing these games on phones, PCs, or tablets. Those that have accomplished this are the famous Scrabble, Uno, and Monopoly.
7. Sleep – The Answer to all Problems!
Amidst this pandemic, it would be justifiable for anxiety and stress to kick in. Rather than investing time and vitality stressing out, why not transform that kind of stress into what you can control, focusing on aspects like taking care of yourself and your loved ones. Concentrating on gaining sufficient rest is a characteristic fit for dealing with the betterment for yourself which can boost your immunity at the same time.
Satisfactory rest can augment your potential for having better days under these conditions. Ideal rest controls and enhances while giving you a positive state of mind, improves brain capacity, and boosts energy and efficiency to keep you active throughout the day. Uneven sleeping schedules and patterns or even sleeping too much during the day can hinder your sleep altogether.
Rest is critical at present, especially once Ramadan wraps up. Here are some tips and tricks that can help you boost your sleep:
Incorporate some `me` time.
Cut down on afternoon naps.
Have a go at breathing exercises.
Form a sleeping schedule and make sure to stick to it.
Curtail screen time at night.
Do keep in mind that rest is significant to keep us lively especially during these trying times. Agonizing over rest just transforms into more pressure and stress and I’m sure that is something which you do not want to be dealing with this Ramadan. Simply ensure to put forth a valiant effort to get the chance to bed on schedule and follow these tips should you find it difficult to get in some sleep time.
Given the ongoing pandemic, it won't be possible for Eid to be celebrated the way it was previously. Even though things might be intense in this present circumstance, we could all learn and take this opportunity to reflect on our behaviors and past lifestyles prior to this pandemic. Perhaps one of the takeaways from this year's humble celebration is never to take things for granted. Hopefully, in the near future, we will be more appreciative of the smaller things in life and work towards having a more meaningful Eid, with lessons learnt from this year's humble celebration.
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The month of Ramadan is dawning upon us, the period of fasting and prayers for Muslims. Ramadan is viewed as the holiest month of the year for the Muslim community. It is commended as the month Prophet Muhammad received the holy book for Muslims from God - which is known as the Quran. During Ramadan, Muslims around the world will fast from dawn till sunset while refraining from indulging in sexual acts and wrong deeds or thoughts. Muslims are also encouraged to do good and cultivate good habits.
As per tradition, this sacred occasion encourages social gatherings, but considering the recent events, it becomes impractical.
The coronavirus has altered the notion of festivity. In spite of these new limitations, there are still a lot of chances to reach out to others. Regardless of the tough situation today, we will prevail. Celebrating Ramadan during this tough period will hopefully offer us the chance to unlearn and relearn, and to develop as a focused individual prepared to confront the real challenges of a new tomorrow. To do so will require persistence, compromises, assurance and above all, faith in ourselves and our own family to manage the approaching holy month during this crisis.
Here, we have compiled a list of what your Ramadan may look like this year!
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1. Zoom: An Online Savior
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Despite the outbreak of the pandemic, it doesn't mean that we can't stay connected and close to our faith, beliefs and loved ones during this blessed month. While many are encouraged to stay at home as much as possible during this period, Muslims across the world can still carry out their daily prayers as well as Tarawih with their family members within the confines of their homes.
Additionally, one can still connect with other family members or friends who are not living in the same residence, through video calls using platforms like Zoom during this Ramadan period. Zoom is an audio and video conferencing mechanism that permits up to 1,000 members to join the call at the same time.
Several activities can be carried out this Ramadan via Zoom! You can attend online religious classes, tune in to Islam related podcasts and even learn to recite the Quran through Zoom!
Large religious gatherings at all holy places of worship in numerous countries around the world have been told to postpone these activities as a measure to curb the spread of the virus.
The Religious Affairs Ministry in Indonesia which is the world's greatest Muslim dominating country of 270 million individuals, has released a detailed memo consisting of guidelines for Ramadan this year, which talks about constraining social gatherings due to the ongoing situation. Muslims need not leave their homes to pay their zakat, officials will visit the individuals at their homes to collect the dues.
The entire Muslim community has been encouraged to perform Tarawih with their family at home. These limitations have not prevented Muslims from looking for inventive approaches to pray with their loved ones amidst this crisis. During this period, one should utilize innovation and the use of technology during this holy month of Ramadan in these difficult times.
2. Ramadan Bazaars Hit The Web!
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As Ramadan draws near, what the vast majority will anticipate is the delicious Ramadan delicacies offered at the ideal hustle and bustle of Ramadan bazaars. As a substitute to the normal street bazaars, the vendors of these bazaars will take it to the Internet this year due to the cancellation of the yearly Ramadan bazaar to eliminate the spread of the pandemic.
For example in Malaysia, Siti Nur Hanani Sulong has further supported the vendors by making a few Facebook pages for the vendors to join and distribute their menus on this virtual stage. Some of them are:
Bazar Ramadhan Bandar Universiti Seri Iskandar
Bazar Ramadhan SIDEC SIBC Seri Iskandar
Bazar Ramadhan Tronoh
Bazar Ramadhan Titi Gantung
Bazar Ramadhan Kampung Gajah
Bazar Ramadhan Batu Gajah
Bazar Ramadhan Manjung.
Merchants will first advertise their products on these groups. Customers can then visit these pages to look at the wide variety of items sold. The customers can then notify the relevant vendor about which items they wish to purchase via WhatsApp and the relevant orders will then be delivered to the customer.
The online bazaar will eradicate human traffic being caused at one spot. This will likewise offer the chance to entrepreneurs who usually do exchanges at bazaars, the chance to go online to sell their goods and items to generate income.
In the interim, relevant parties will register and enroll the suppliers via other delivering means, for example, Grab Food and Foodpanda.
3. Self-improvement Activities This Ramadan
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Below are a couple of self-improvement activities which you can dive into while under quarantine this Ramadan 2020:
Stay in contact with friends and family
Stay in touch and stay updated virtually with your loved ones this Ramadan. If you have an elderly family member or neighbours living close to you, try to look out for them by calling them constantly. It will help them feel relaxed and allow them to feel loved and nurtured during these troubling times. You never know when they would require support but are too shy to ask for it!
Relax through means of meditation and prayers
The advantages of committing time to reflecting upon yourself through meditation and praying are various. To genuinely sit idle yet think or implore can appear to be difficult to fit during a hustling and bustling morning while managing your work life and family life. Presently, with not having to go to work and recently having additional time for yourself, you now have the freedom to adjust your daily routine to fit in some `me` time.
At the initial stage you don’t have to go all out or spend hours meditating. You can start small by allocating 10 minutes all to yourself and try not to look at your mobile phones or check your social media. Once you get accustomed to this lifestyle you can increase your daily quota. Whatever suits you best!
Get into another leisure activity
Now that you have extra time on your hands this Ramadan, dive into web-based classes; practice and harness skills that you would never usually take on during an ordinary day, or even learn a new language! Gain some additional skills that would value-add to your current profession, or simply one that you've been dying to try!
Exercise and remain fit this Ramadan
Exercising will no doubt keep you in shape and refrain from making you feel lethargic and lazy while at home. The gym is not the only means where you can work out those muscles. Thanks to the Internet, you can now use social media sites like YouTube or Facebook to check out exercise-related workout videos or even join an online workout class.
4. Whip Up Scrumptious Meal With Your Loved Ones
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Numerous individuals are starting to find solace in cooking during this coronavirus pandemic. They are likewise utilizing it as an inventive outlet, sharing their cooking outcomes via social networking media and interacting with others online during this social distancing period. You can experiment and teach your family how to cook different sorts of recipes for sahoor and iftar this Ramadan!
While cooking together, also attempt to make it a point to eat together as well. As families remain at home to curb the spread of COVID-19, this is a perfect opportunity to inculcate new good habits into your children. Having iftar or sahoor together as a family can be a great first step to tighten bonds between families.
5. Quran-time During This Quarantine
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A large number of us have since a long time ago delayed the learning, reciting or understanding the Quran because of some interruption or the other. We may find ourselves too overwhelmed with work in the past that we may not have dedicated some time to learning and understanding the Quran. We may find that every other aspects of our life has developed and prospered aside from the rapport with the Quran. Now with our general life and day to day activities coming to a halt during self-quarantine, now is the time to get back on track with the recital of the Holy Quran. We now can set aside time to recite, learn and understand the Quran during this upcoming month of Ramadan! We believe that this year's Ramadan will be filled with self-development with most of us taking some time to learn and understand the Quran.
6. A Solemn Eid? No way!
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Eid, which marks the end of Ramadan, will be considerably different because of the ongoing pandemic in comparison to other celebrations carried out in the previous years. In any case, it is dependent upon you to guarantee that the state of mind doesn't bring about a solemn one this Eid! You can in any case keep up the exuberance and the joy from your home! You can figure out how to feel merry with the involvement of your loved ones. You can call up your folks, call up your friends and family and celebrate Eid virtually. You can do so through online means like having a Zoom video call with your family while feasting on your Eid delights.
Celebrating any occasion during this time will be different as to how it would have been carried out previously and yet, it can still be exceptionally celebratory in its own distinctive manner. Who says you can't have a great Eid celebration amidst this pandemic? It's all up to you to plan.
via GIPHYResilience and commitment to manage this crisis will be required during the month of Ramadan. As this pandemic keeps on unfurling, new difficulties are being presented each day, affecting the lives of each individual, convincing us to think of better approaches to adapt and move beyond this pandemic. While there is a feeling of gloom all through the world, we can try our best to remain positive and strong by supporting one another, and staying connected with our families during the month of Ramadan.
We wish you and your family good health and a very blessed Ramadan 2020!...

Are you someone looking for adventure and rare experiences – a travel experience that will leave you thinking for days or maybe even months? Then Chernobyl is a destination not to be missed. It is a must-visit for any adventure junkie and should be on anyone’s list of places to see before they die.
With dark tourism being a new trend in the world of travel, Chernobyl has started garnering much attention – especially with the HBO TV show about the nuclear disaster. So what is Chernobyl and why should you visit it today? Keep reading to find out!
A Macabre Past
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Chernobyl was an active Nuclear Power Plant located near the city of Pripyat, USSR – now modern-day Ukraine. The nuclear disaster occurred on the 26th of April 1986 when the No. 4 reactor exploded during a failed safety test.
The accident occurred due to a large amount of energy being released which resulted in a steam explosion that caused the reactor core to rupture. This lead to an open-air reactor core fire which released nuclear contaminants into the air, this lasted for 9 days till it was finally contained on the 4th of May 1986.
The radiation spread into the 500,000 populous towns of Pripyat, leading to the ultimate evacuation of its residents – they never returned. To limit the radiation from contaminating the air and surroundings further, the site of the explosion was covered with a temporary sarcophagus, which was made permanent in 2017, built to prevent further radiation contamination for the next 100 years.
The now-abandoned city of Pripyat and the nuclear power plant look like the setting for a post-apocalyptic movie or book. The revival of its dark past in the famed HBO TV series ‘Chernobyl’ has once again caught the attention of people worldwide, garnering many tourists to the destination –,, especially influencers.
However, this led to controversy as influencers posed inappropriately in front of different locations in and around Pripyat just so they can get more engagement on their accounts. This goes to show that as travelers it is extremely important to respect the destination you have traveled to, especially if it has a sad and horrifying past.
How To Get To Chernobyl
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The main city closest to Chernobyl is Kyiv, it is 100km away – it is a 2 hour journey to Chernobyl if you go by car. The closest airport to Kyiv is the Boryspil International Airport which has direct flights from all over Europe – London, Zurich, Paris, and Vienna to name a few. It is advisable to plan a trip to Chernobyl as a part of a Europe tour as this will help you save up on cash.
In case you are already in Ukraine, you can opt for a train ride; the best route is the intercity train from Lviv to Kyiv. Also, keep in mind that there are many budget airlines available in Eastern Europe, you can check websites like Skyscanner for info on cheap flights.
Also Read: 8 Tips for Booking the Cheapest Flights for Your Next Trip
Chernobyl and The Exclusion Zone
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Visiting Chernobyl doesn’t just mean going to the nuclear reactor itself but the surrounding exclusion zone. It is a vast area that covers a few towns and a forested area along with the Chernobyl reactor. The exclusion zone is an area of 2,600 Km2 (1000 sqm) that goes around the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant. The area is off bounds to the general public as it is extremely hazardous. It is required to go through many checkpoints within the exclusion zone; the checkpoint closest to the reactor has the highest levels of radiation.
So, is it safe to visit Chernobyl? Yes, to a certain degree. Radiation is known to remain for a very long period, however, in small doses, it cannot harm i.e. x-rays and, long-haul flights. We are exposed to radiation daily however; its effects are almost non-existent.
The day tours at Chernobyl are planned in a way that you are exposed to low levels of radiation as you will only be in the area for a few hours and will only be taken to safe spots. People still live within the exclusion zone and a few thousand people work at the power plant decommissioning the old reactors and building the sarcophagus.
Everyone who visits the exclusion zone is required to go through an old soviet radiation checkpoint on the way out – this is to make sure that you are not carrying any radioactive contaminants.
Important point! Get travel insurance – it is always better to be on the safe side.
The Tour
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There are 3 tour options on offer, if you want a quick but informative trip to Chernobyl the one day tour would be a good choice, but if you want to take things slow and, take pictures of the place you can opt for the more longer tours such as the 2-3 days tours or even go for a private tour which will allow you to observe the place at your own pace.
The one day tour would be your best bet as it is more convenient and packed with activities. You can get your money’s worth within a span of 10 -12 hours. It is priced between 100USD to 115USD. Also, do some thorough research into the tour companies available; choose a tour that fits you the best. Small groups are always better and, be sure to check if Geiger counter (an instrument that measures radiation levels – mandatory for all tours) are inclusive with the tour package.
Are tour guides a must? Yes, definitely. It is better to join a guided tour as you will be safe and the guides will also help make the experience more immersive as they will show and tell you everything you need to know about the place.
Other than the famed Nuclear Reactor No. 4, you will be able to see the abandoned city of Pripyat where the staff that used to work at the power plant used to live, abandoned schools, as well as the Pripyat amusement park that was to be opened on the 1st of May 1986 for the May Day celebrations however, it was never to be due to the Nuclear accident that occurred in late April of the same year. You will also be able to witness unique soviet architecture and interior.
However, the main showstopper is how nuclear disasters affect humanity and other life, a great example of how important it is to practice ethical science and how the hunger for power can destroy instead of build.
Be Prepared
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Be prepared for your Chernobyl tour and, remember that weather will play a big role as well – winters can be especially cold but add to the dystopian surroundings of Chernobyl, whilst fall/ Autumn is known to be beautiful.
Wear comfortable shoes as you will be walking most of the time and, carry raincoats or umbrellas as it could rain. If visiting during the winter season wear a warm jacket and keep your head covered – especially ears and, wear a scarf – well covered waterproof shoes are also important. Remember that you should always have a Geiger counter with you if the tour doesn’t include free Geiger counters rent them before leaving on the tour.
Where To Stay In Kyiv
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Kyiv is a beautiful city and a tourist destination in its own right, therefore finding accommodation here will not be a problem. There are many hostels and hotels in the area, as well as AirBnBs which are quite affordable.
Opt to find lodging close to the tour meeting point; most tours will depart from the Kyiv Central Station so opt for accommodation close by. If you have chosen a private tour, you will be picked from the hotel.
Halal food in Kyiv?
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Finding Halal food will not be difficult as many restaurants serve Halal food. If you want to cook your food, you can easily find Halal groceries and butchers who supply Halal meats. A Google search can quickly direct you to these places without much hassle.
A monument of healing and rebuilding for the modern world, Chernobyl is an intriguing travel destination that must be witnessed by all.
Hopefully, this guide helps you to plan out a trip to Chernobyl.
Always seek adventure fellow travelers!...